Ontario’s top doctor recommends COVID-19 booster shots for high-risk groups

Ontario’s chief medical officer of health is recommending that high-risk individuals get their COVID-19 booster shot this spring.

Dr. Kieran Moore says anyone over the age of 65, long-term care and retirement home residents, and anyone who is moderately or severely immunocompromised should consider getting the booster if it has been at least six months since their last dose or if they have tested positive for COVID-19.

“Staying up to date with vaccinations continues to be our best defense against COVID-19 and I’m strongly encouraging everyone, especially those with an increased risk of severe infection, to get all boosters available,” Moore said in a statement.

“I’m encouraging everyone to keep helping reduce the spread of respiratory illness by staying home when they feel sick, washing their hands often and covering their mouths when they cough or sneeze.”

Appointments can be booked through the province’s COVID-19 vaccination portal or by calling 1-833-943-3900. Individuals can also book an appointment directly through public health units that use their own booking systems, health care providers and participating pharmacies.

Rapid antigen tests are available to Ontarians at no charge until June 30, 2023, from over 3,000 participating pharmacy or grocery stores across the province. PCR testing is available at any provincial testing location to eligible groups.

Antiviral treatments, such as Paxlovid, are available at no cost to Ontarians with a prescription and can be prescribed by a pharmacist, physician or nurse practitioner.